The Dursley's adopted son

Chapter 28

Piers released me from his hug, and Mr. Dursley offered his hand out to me, reminiscent of the way he did this morning, however this time when I shook his hand he set his other hand on my shoulder.

"Excellent performance, Percy, I can see why my son took a liking ot you."

Yup. The feeling of pride in my chest is totally normal and has nothing to do with my lack of a father figure ahahaha. Haha. Ha.

I pulled myself together and beamed at him,

"Thank you Mr. Dursley, you know, it's thanks to Dudley's help that I even made the team in the first place. He's a really great friend,"

While this is not a lie about the current Dudley, the Dudley I became friends with at the beginning of the year was a different story, however I wasn't going to point out Dudley's previous issues with bullying to his very proud, very beefy father, who was currently looking at me with respect.

Mr. Dursley gave me one more solid pat on the shoulder, before turning to embrace his son, who was finally free from his mother. Now it was Mrs. Dursley's turn to congratulate me, and I wasn't sure what I expected from her, but it definitely wasn't a kiss on the forehead.

"Oh Percy, you did brilliantly! And for your very first tournament too!" and then she gave me another forehead kiss, and a great big hug. I caught a glimpse of Piers giggling slightly, although I wasn't sure if it was from the way Mrs. Dursley was acting, or from my face, which I'm positive was a picture of pure confusion. Either way, I hugged Mrs. Dursley back after I got over my surprise, and thanked her so much for cheering me on. She pulled back from the hug, and gave me a once over. I felt like I could still sense some hesitancy in her body language, but she just smiled,

"I hope we didn't come off as rude earlier, Percy, we're just a tad protective of our Dudley, I'm sure you understand."

I nodded, although I fought the urge to point out that without a mother or father, I don't think I did understand. Mrs. Dursley continued,

"Any friend of Dudley is welcome in our home, we're so glad you two found each other."

I fought the urge to analyze whether or not she was telling the truth, instead electing to take her words at face value and cherish the idea of being welcomed into their home. I swore to myself that I would not feel disappointed if it turned out they were just lying to appease their son, although I was really truly hoping that their offers and smiles were genuine.

"So," Mr. Dursley said loudly, gaining everyone's attention, "Are you boys hungry?"

Piers and Dudley cheered, and after realizing that Mr. Dursley thought this an appropriate response, I joined in as well. He let out a hearty chuckle and said,

"Growing boys like you three deserve a nice solid meal! Let's head out and find some food."

We all headed to the car. Mr and Mrs. Dursley sat in the front, while the three of us squeezed into the back. As the smallest, I was put in the middle seat, and subjected to lots of jostling and Dudley and Piers had some sort of fight that involved a lot of poking. I was used as a human shield by both parties. Mrs. Dursley watched on fondly in the rearview mirror as Mr. Dursley drove to a nearby food establishment. Unsurprisingly, it was a place I had never been before. As we all clambered out of the car, Mrs. Dursley turned to Dudley and Piers, who were still poking each other (honestly, how Dudley still had the energy I have no clue).

"Alright boys, good behavior now."

The two of them straighted up and stopped their brotherly duel with cheeky smiles. Mrs. Dursley just smiled at them, and I could have sworn she almost rolled her eyes. She nodded at me and the five of us headed into the restaurant.

1525 words!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! Hope everyone is doing well!

Also, a note as we move forward: I started writing this story like 5+ (6? 7? who knows) years ago, wayyyy before the TV adaptation of Percy Jackson was even mentioned to the general public. I absolutely LOVE the show (go watch if you haven't yet!!!) and think the casting is amazing! Everyone is doing such a phenomenal job, and I love the way they're adding to the characters and story. Having said that, I don't plan on changing how my characters are described. When I write, I base things entirely off of the books— BOTH FOR PERCY JACKSON AND FOR HARRY POTTER!!! So, my version of Percy still has black hair (and tan, non-white skin since that's how I pictured him when I originally read the book!) Eventually (pretty soon actually!), you all will also be treated to my description of our very dear Harry, which does not fit the appearance of Daniel Radcliffe. This is not meant to be a criticism or judgement towards any of the actors in any way shape or form!! I simply use writing as a tool to share what I see in my head, and everything from house design, to specific hairstyles, to clothing is very detailed and specific in my minds eye. I really don't want to offend anyone or disrespect the amazing people who have put together the best TV show ever. Hopefully y'all can understand. Thank you!! <3 <3